Lesson 9 · Night, weather and emergencies
What do you do if your car hydroplanes?
Short answer
Ease off the gas, keep the wheel straight, and do not brake hard. Let the car slow down until the tires grip again.
Watch it play out
How to do it
- Slow down in heavy rain, especially on standing water.
- If you hydroplane, take your foot off the gas.
- Hold the wheel steady and straight.
- Brake gently only after the tires grip again.
Why the rule works this way
Tires need contact with the road to steer and stop. Speed and worn tires make hydroplaning more likely.
Common mistakes
- Using cruise control in heavy rain.
- Slamming on the brakes or jerking the wheel.
Questions people ask
How fast can hydroplaning happen?
It can happen at normal highway speeds in heavy rain. Worn or underinflated tires make it more likely.